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Gators Notebook: Football players get an early-morning practice call

Coach Will Muschamp had his team practice at 5:40 Friday morning. He wants longer recovery time and extra film work before the Gators scrimmage on Saturday. Offensive lineman Max Garcia should be ready after missing the last two days due to a back injury.

“We immediately started with our hurry-up tempo drill to get them going. And they responded the right way,” Muschamp said. “Very pleased with the attitude, effort and the competitive edge of our football team this morning. We’ve got to continue it.”

Darrin Kitchens shifted inside to replace Anzalone at backup middle linebacker. The third-year coach called former kicker Caleb Sturgis the best he’s been around. His absence affects offensive coordinator Brent Pease’s play calling.

In one-minute drills on Friday, Muschamp discussed with defensive coordinator D.J. Durkin how Pease’s calls would be different. No more slants, hitches or comebacks. Florida has to pick up yards vertically.

“We just have to get more consistent,” Muschamp said of Hardin and Phillips. “You leave a guy you had such confidence in and the team had such confidence in and now you’re a little bit of the unknown. The unknown for a coach is never good.”

Jones and Joyer add versatility

Jordan Reed leaving for the NFL Draft means replacing not just a vertical receiving threat, but the safety net for QB Jeff Driskel. Now that role is left to players like Matt Jones and Hunter Joyer.

Jones developed his hands at Armwood High School where he sometimes lined up in the slot. The running back improved as his freshman season wound down. His breakout performance against Florida State showcased a young player overcoming freshman struggles.

Joyer makes the defense account for the fullback position. He lined up at multiple formations in 2012. Jones and Joyer combined for seven receptions last season.

“A lot of the intermediate passing game was to Jordan Reed. That’s where we’re kind of searching right now,” Muschamp said. “Involving the backs more now and getting the ball to your playmakers is the No. 1 option, and certainly our backs are capable of that if we can’t get the production from the tight end position.”